What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, scentless and tough to notice without the right tools. If it builds up in your home, it can swiftly pose a danger for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are your first line of defense, notifying you of the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But besides a detector going off, how can you tell if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Nearby Appliances
If you see lots of condensation on your windows, especially near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could mean that there’s an issue with ventilation. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this clue deserves a closer look.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Appliances that run on combusting fuel should have unobstructed ventilation. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, there may be combustion issues. This can signal a carbon monoxide leak.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are in the House
If you start to notice exhaust inside the house, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used safely outside the home to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Gas Fireplace
Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s excessive amounts. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.
5. Weaker or No Draft from the Chimney
Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you notice a weak draft or even no draft at all, your chimney might be obstructed, sending carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Discolored or Flickering Flames
All appliances that use gas should produce a distinct blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas isn’t burning properly and could be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly
When your wood- or coal-fired stove is burning slower than usual or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could have a problem with airflow, raising the risk of CO buildup.
Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you don’t catch the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning might come from your health and well-being. Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- And fatigue
If you or anyone in your household suddenly feels sick, especially alongside any of the above signs, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes mandate them outside every bedroom, on each floor of your home and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to set up interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and change them when required, approximately every five to seven years.
In addition to installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, keep these safety precautions in mind:
- Hire a professional to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and any other fuel-burning appliances.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, backup generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Turn on the range hood whenever you’re cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and never use these appliances to try and heat your home.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Goes Above and Beyond to Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we recognize the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team delivers fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll do our best to keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
